Saying Goodbye to Keesha

A final gift from our vet.

I have been trying to find the words, exactly the right sentiments, to tell everyone about the sweetest dog ever, my girl Keesha.  I can tell you, if you have a pet - stop reading right now and go give them a hug and a little kiss.  You think they'll always be there.  Always be at the door greeting you when you get home.  When they're not, life is just not the same.  Your pet wants nothing more from you than your love, so give them all you've got! 

It is hard to write stories about Keesha.  She was so sweet and good-natured.  She wasn't mean.  She wasn't naughty.  She smiled - really smiled - when she saw you.  She was her happiest when she was with her people.  She hated loud noises and kept us awake many nights during thunderstorms.  She didn't bark much (except during thunderstorms), but when she did, she'd give it her very best effort and she would bounce.  She barked with her whole self.

Keesha's favorite, all time greatest treat was cheese.  That girl would do anything for even just a little bit of cheese.  Although the last couple of years her hearing wasn't as sharp as it had been, she was very aware when you would open the refrigerator and the drawer that held that tasty treat.  You could ask her to sit and she just didn't understand...until you had cheese, and then she understood very well what "sit" meant.  So, yes...she played me - and looking back, it was my pleasure.

You know when you have an elderly pet, you prepare yourself for "the day."  You fool yourself thinking you will be ready for it.  I can tell you, nothing you do will ever prepare you for the loss of a beloved companion.  We knew in our hearts what was coming.  We knew her tired body was just not working any more.  I couldn't bear to see her in pain and suffering any longer.  I had only a short time with her to hold her head, scratch her ears, and tell her how much she meant to me before she was gone.  I believe she knew, without a doubt, how loved she was.  I know, without a doubt, how much she loved me back.

The last couple of years, Keesha couldn't see well.  She couldn't hear well.  But I know she knew I was there for her at the end.  She saw me through her cloudy eyes.  She heard the muffled sweet good-byes I spoke to her.

Keesha was a most amazing girl and a great companion.  She was a gift that brightened my life.  She leaves a great big hole in my heart, and emptiness in my house.  I'll miss her forever.